Chicken Katsu Curry is a delightful dish that combines the crispy goodness of chicken katsu with a rich, savory curry sauce.

Imagine tender, juicy chicken coated in breadcrumbs, served over fluffy rice, and smothered in a warm, flavorful curry.

This dish is not only comforting but also surprisingly easy to whip up in your own kitchen.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Let’s dive into this delicious journey together!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Chicken Katsu Curry is a must-try for several reasons.

First, it’s incredibly satisfying.

The combination of the crunchy chicken and the rich, velvety curry sauce is a match made in heaven.

Second, this recipe is filled with wholesome ingredients, making it not just tasty, but nourishing as well.

Finally, it’s a versatile dish that you can easily customize based on your preferences and what you have available in your pantry.

So, gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

To make the Chicken Katsu Curry, you will need the following:

4 tablespoons (52 g) unsalted butter
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
1 medium carrot, peeled and diced into 1-inch chunks
2 medium potatoes or 1 large, peeled and diced into 1-inch chunks
1 small apple, peeled and grated
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 teaspoons fresh grated ginger
4 tablespoons (30 g) all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
4 cups (1 liter) chicken stock, warm
1 tablespoon (15 ml) soy sauce
1 tablespoon (15 ml) honey

How To Make Chicken Katsu Curry

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s take a look at how to make this mouthwatering Chicken Katsu Curry.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Katsu

Start by pounding your chicken until it’s an even thickness.

This helps it cook evenly and stay tender.

Season the chicken fillets with salt and pepper.

Next, set up a breading station.

In one bowl, beat an egg, in another place some all-purpose flour, and in the last bowl, add breadcrumbs.

Dip each chicken piece first in flour, then in egg, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs.

Heat some oil in a frying pan over medium heat.

Once hot, add the breaded chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides.

This should take about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on your stovetop.

Once cooked, let them rest on a paper towel to absorb extra oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Curry Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.

Add the finely diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.

This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.

Next, add the diced carrot and potatoes, along with the grated apple, minced garlic, and grated ginger.

Stir this mixture for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Sprinkle the flour over the veggies and stir well to combine.

This will help thicken our curry sauce later.

Add the curry powder and garam masala, mixing everything together for an additional minute.

Now, slowly pour in the warm chicken stock while stirring to remove any lumps formed by the flour.

Bring this to a gentle simmer and cook until the veggies are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

To finish off the sauce, add the soy sauce and honey, giving it a taste and adjusting seasonings as you prefer.

Step 3: Serve It Up

To serve, place a generous scoop of fluffy white rice on a plate.

Slice the chicken katsu and arrange it over the rice.

Pour the warm curry sauce over the top, making sure to coat everything in that luscious flavor.

Garnish with some fresh herbs if you like, and enjoy immediately!

Expert Tips

Make sure to maintain the oil temperature while frying the chicken. If it’s too low, the chicken will soak up oil instead of getting crispy.
If you want a milder curry flavor, reduce the amount of curry powder and garam masala.
You can prepare the curry sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you are ready to serve.
Don’t skip the grated apple! It adds a natural sweetness that balances the spices beautifully.

Variations and Customizations

This Chicken Katsu Curry is really easy to customize based on your preferences and what you have at home.

Here are some variations you can try:

Add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
Use coconut milk instead of chicken stock for a creamier, sweeter curry sauce.
Opt for panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier chicken katsu.
For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with tofu or eggplant.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

They will last for about 3 days.

When you are ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken stock to loosen up the curry if it thickens.

You can also freeze the curry sauce separately from the chicken katsu.

Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

It can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

FAQ

Can I make Chicken Katsu Curry in advance?

Yes, you can definitely prepare the curry sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

It also freezes well, so you can batch cook and have it ready for a quick meal.

What type of rice is best for serving with Chicken Katsu Curry?

Short-grain rice or jasmine rice works beautifully with Chicken Katsu Curry, as they are fluffy and pair perfectly with the delicious sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier and more flavorful result.

Just adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs generally take a bit longer to cook through.

Is this dish suitable for kids?

Yes! The flavors are mild enough for kids, and the crispy chicken katsu is always a hit.

Just be sure to adjust the spices to your family’s taste.

Conclusion

Chicken Katsu Curry is not just a meal; it’s an experience.

From the first crispy bite of the chicken to the warming hug of the curry sauce, it’s comfort food at its best.

This recipe is simple, adaptable, and packed with flavor.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, it’s a dish that is sure to impress.

So why not give it a try? Roll up your sleeves and bring the taste of Japan to your kitchen today.

Happy cooking!